We walk our dogs. We always have and our dogs have come to expect it. There are some days we really don’t feel like doing it, we’re tired, annoyed, done with the world – but those are the days we need it most. And whether we hear the crackle of autumn leaves underfoot, or feel the summer sweat trickling down our backs, our fists closed around the leash open our hearts to the moment and we are at peace.
Dog collars, leashes and, to a degree harnesses, are essential to dog ownership. There are many great brands and designs out there but on a fundamental level, they need to be: comfortable, durable, and do their job with the minimum of hassle. They need to provide you with a level of confidence that you can safely walk your dog, whether around the block or across a strange city center. If you often walk in the early morning or at night a reflective component is definitely recommended too.
Dog Collars
A lot of people simply clip the leash onto the collar for a walk. It’s quick and simple but not necessarily the best for the dog. A collar’s number one purpose is to hold dog tags for identification purposes in the event it gets lost. Walking a dog with the leash clicked into the collar is not advisable for a couple of reasons. Firstly it the collar can come loose (or may already be loose enough around the dog’s neck) to be pulled over the dog’s head leaving you holding leash and collar and the dog high-tailing it down the road free as a bird!
Second, you can harm the dog’s neck and trachea pulling and directing it from the collar.
When buying a collar and not sure of the size to get, measure snuggly around the middle of the dog’s neck then add an extra 5% for a comfortable fit, or measure the current collar if he has one. You should be able to put 2 fingers between the dog’s neck and the collar.
Some of the most popular collars at the moment – positively reviewed for durability, color options and comfort are:
Lupine Collars
Fun, unique colors and designs. A lifetime warranty and heavy-duty side-release clasp.
Blueberry Collars
Many colors, designs, and accessories. Sturdy canvas collar with quick release for emergencies.
Max and Neo Martingale Collar
A “martingale collar” is also referred to as a limited-slip or no-slip collar. This type of collar suits a dog breed that has a head narrower than its neck but can be used for all breeds for more control or if your dog tends to slip out of the collar.
This type of dog collar is fitted with a D-ring to attach to the leash.
For every Max and Neo martingale collar sold the company donates one to a shelter.
Harnesses
It might be a bit of a pain getting a harness on and off but it is a much safer way to walk the dog. Find one that fits well and does not chafe.
The following are some harnesses that are popular in dog circles.
Kurgo TruFit Harness
This harness checks all the blocks for a comfortable, everyday, lightweight walking harness. It also includes a seat belt tether to connect with your car’s seatbelt system.
2 Hounds Design
A harness for particularly rambunctious dogs. They also come in a variety of fun colors and have a 2-year chew warranty.
Puppia Harness
Designed for small dogs and puppies, these are vest-style harnesses that are comfortable and breathable. The Puppia harness fits chest sizes from 9 to 41 inches. They come in many very cute designs. Take good measurements of your dog before ordering.
Leashes
Our dogs like a retractable leash but they are not the safest. When you’re walking in a relatively safe environment and not in danger of cars or bikes in close proximity or a lot of other dogs out walking it’s probably fine and gives the dogs that little extra freedom to smell something a little longer than your patience allows and quickly catch up. If you do use a retractable leash please practice pulling it in quickly and making sure you can secure your dog in the event of an emergency.
There are many leashes on the market and you will choose one based on your own color and design preferences. Make sure it is comfortable to hold in your own hand and that you choose one based on your dog’s size, strength, personality, and temperament. A big, strong, inquisitive dog needs a leash that is going to be durable and not fray under a little resistance.
Here are a few of the most popular brands on the market at the moment:
PetSafe Nylon Leash
This is a no-frills traditional leash (although it comes in a variety of colors) that gets the job done day after day. They come in multiple lengths and widths depending on the size and characteristics of your dog.
Max and Neo Double Handle Leash
Especially if your walk takes you through busy intersections, along city sidewalks and non-familiar territory this leash provides a traffic handle,” a second loop closer to the dog’s collar that you can grab in case your dog tries to run into the street. And remember with Max and Neo, with every leash sold they donate one to a dog rescue.
EzyDog Cujo Shock Absorbing Leash
For dogs that pull, experts recommend a shock-absorbing leash. A shock-absorbing leash evenly distributes strain if the dog pulls and the woven rope design absorbs shock. The EzyDog Cujo leash also has a pyramid pull handle that is designed to evenly distribute pull and provides better comfort and control.
Conclusion
Dogs and their humans have walked and wandered and explored together for centuries. We continue the traditions and we never walk alone.
